The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints will host a day of activities Friday to celebrate and commemorate the changing of the church's name to Community of Christ.
The events begin with a 10 a.m. ceremony unveiling the new Community of Christ sign at the southwest corner of the church parking lot. A worship ceremony and celebration will follow at 10:30 a.m. in the Temple sanctuary.
Beginning at 1:30 p.m., guests are welcome to attend free organ performances in the Temple Sanctuary and Auditorium. Performances begin every 30 minutes. The Graceland University choir will perform at 2 p.m. in the Temple Sanctuary.
Visitors are also welcome to explore the interactive displays at the Children's Peace Pavilion and the church history display at the Temple Museum. Both attractions will be open from 1:30 to 6 p.m.
Church officials will be on hand to meet with the public at a community reception and open house from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Temple.
Delegates at last year's RLDS World Conference voted to release the church's lengthy name in favor of the briefer and more welcoming title. The old name, which has identified the church since the 1860s, will be retained for legal purposes.
Church spokesperson Susan Naylor said the new name "more closely reflects the mission of the church."
The events Friday culminate a year of planning and 40 days of spiritual preparation by church members around the world.
To reach Darla McFarland send e-mail to darlam@examiner.net or call her at 350-6321.